How to spot a lonely rabbit
September 14, 2019
Rabbits and companionship
Rabbits are incredibly social animals and appreciate constant companionship. In the wild they are with other rabbits all the time, so they are not used to being on their own.
It’s usually a good idea to have two rabbits together, but if you really just want one then make sure you can provide it with plenty of attention.
The Vet Whetstone’s team is on hand to advise you on how best to deal with a lonely rabbit, so if you are concerned, why not contact us?
Contact us for lonely rabbit advice
Is my rabbit lonely?
There are several signs that will help you to determine whether your pet rabbit is feeling isolated and needs more companionship.
- Your rabbit may show signs of wanting attention from you by nudging you, softly biting or even making digging notions directly on you.
- On the other hand, they may show signs of withdrawing from you, refusing interaction and not responding when you try to pet or play.
- A lonely rabbit may become hyperactive and angry. They may display destructive behaviour such as gnawing at the carpets and other furniture.
- Lonely rabbits may pull at their fur and overeat.
Giving your rabbit a friend:
Albert] at The Vet Whetstone advises that the best companion for a rabbit is another rabbit, around the same age and preferably of the opposite gender, although do make sure they are both neutered if you don’t want a surprise litter of bunnies.
Be careful when introducing them to one another and prevent fighting by letting them meet in a neutral space that neither perceives as its own territory.
Once they show signs of bonding, such as snuggling and rubbing noses, they will be ready to share the same space full-time.
Human companionship:
If you don’t want a second rabbit, you can help ease your rabbit’s loneliness yourself:
- Give your rabbit at least an hour out of its cage each day
- Spend some time playing with it at its own level on the floor. Rabbits love to dig, knock things over and toss things in the air
- Pet your rabbit on the forehead cheek and back. This is best done when it is feeling relaxed after a meal
For more advice, the team at The Vet Whetstone is always happy to help.